Interpretive Summary: Conservation of different plant types provides genetic diversity and sources of new crops, value-added traits, and resistance to pests that can be used for crop improvement. This study was conducted to establish a standard procedure needed for germplasm collections and preservation. Using clover as an example, we have established a framework for genetic resources conservation which will provide a model for collection managers. This will result in more uniform collections, easier transfer of data among curators and collection managers and it also provides a valuable reference for Trifolium users.

Technical Abstract:
This study was conducted to illustrate a systematic strategy that can be used by collection managers to develop a framework to guide the development of ex situ germplasm collections that effectively serve the dual purpose of crop improvement and the conservation of plant biodiversity. The genus Trifolium is used to develop a generally applicable model. The results of this study will also provide a valuable reference for Trifolium users. The general strategy begins with defining the framework for a broad base gene pool. The framework is based on a thorough understanding of the taxonomy, cytology and geographic distribution of the genus or related genera. The gene pool concept is used to define the scope of a broad conservation collection where taxa are prioritized based on genetic relatedness to the cultivated species. Additionally, the occurrence of existing and potential value-added traits for the crop are taken into account, as well as current and anticipated vulnerabilities to the persistence of intra-and interspecific diversity. The results are a conservation collection which is conceptually static, but that contains dynamic sets of germplasm present due to existing and potential needs of users as well as current and anticipated threats of genetic erosion.